Likud Officials Clash Over Netanyahu's Stance on Ofer Winter

Senior Likud officials have sharply criticized Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's approach to potential political candidate Ofer Winter, with Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana leading the charge. Ohana argued in a radio interview that the greatest danger to the right-wing bloc comes from within, not from the left. He expressed concern that Winter's party might not pass the electoral threshold, potentially wasting right-wing votes, and recalled past instances where similar parties, like Ayelet Shaked and Naftali Bennett's, failed to cross the threshold.

Ohana urged Winter to withdraw from the political race, stating that while he had previously called for unity, the deadline had passed. He believes Winter's continued candidacy endangers the right-wing camp and urged him to step aside if he genuinely wants Netanyahu to remain prime minister. This internal dissent within Likud highlights a significant disagreement regarding Netanyahu's strategy concerning Winter.

According to a report in 'Maariv', several senior Likud figures believe Netanyahu is making a mistake regarding Winter, whom they consider an "asset." These officials contend that Winter could prevent right-wing voters from defecting to Benny Gantz's party. However, some polls indicate that Winter may not pass the electoral threshold, and when he does, he secures around four seats, a number considered precarious.

This political maneuvering comes amidst ongoing legal issues for Sara Netanyahu, with a large lawsuit filed against her, further complicating the political landscape for the Prime Minister.